7. Costa Rica
I wouldn’t label their defense the best in the World Cup, but surely only allowing two goals in five games is an outstanding accomplishment. Costa Rica defied all odds with their dominance of the “Group of Death.” Nobody expected they would be quarter finalists, but they made it all the way to the final eight teams. Las Ticas proved that they can be dangerous simply by using counter attacks.
According to their stats, and by watching their games, Costa Rica is no dominant team. Their possession is abysmal and their shot conversion is one of the worst. However, they still managed five goals in five matches and only conceded one.
Someone once said that a good defense wins championships. While Costa Rica didn’t win the World Cup, they proved that an elite defensive display can get you very far.
Goals Scored: 5 (12th)
Goals Conceded: 2 (1st)
Completed Passes: 71% (27th)
Attacks: 130 (22nd)
Shot on goal per total shots: 47% (30th)
Possession: 43% (30th)
Completed Clearances: 77% (26th)
Saves: 21 (6th)
